Monday, November 12, 2018
Aside from the "glamping" treat for my man, I also had help from "Sweet Bowl Over" to surprise him on the actual day of our 2nd year anniversary.
Now if you are wondering what is Sweet Bowl Over, they are the newcomer in the surprise event management and gift delivery industry.
Stay at the end coz there will be some Q&A with the people behind this gem!
I came across their page on my feed and I already fell in love with the service they offer! The art of surprising someone who means the world to you is just beyond amazing and exciting!! I'm glad that some people thought of this idea and made a business out of it!
So without a doubt, I contacted them thru their Facebook page and got a reply on the same day. They are very accommodating and helpful! I do appreciate their recommendations and they are open to requests !
I was initially booked for the Chocolate Box Surprise, but prior to the actual date of delivery, they sent me a message and offered me their newest surprise box.
And I was so impressed I said yes in a heartbeat!
The box contains of chocolates, a bottle of wine and coffee drops.
 |
| Credits to SBO |
Another back story that made me wowed was when I made a late payment. Because you know "adulting" responsibilities :(
Actually, you have to be paid 2 weeks ahead of your target date, but in my case it's only like a week away when I placed my payment and they still accepted !
T^T The top notch service didn't stop there! My man and I both work on night shifts but their delivery schedule is only at 6pm. They told me they can do the delivery at 7:30 pm !! Huhuhuhuhu ! I was so happy and relieved!
They are so easy to talk to and they understood my situation very well !
It was indeed a hassle-free transaction from the planning up until the delivery ! I didn't even sweat because they're so flexible and you can tell they love what they do and is passionate about it !
My man had no idea, confused and surprised all at the same time ! I mean that's the goal right ? :D
He loved it ! ♥
Lastly, I got the privilege to ask them a few questions to share here in my blog :)
- What does Sweet Bowl Over do?
It's simple. We're in the business of spreading the love vibe!
We believe that everybody deserves a magical moment. That achievements whether big or small are meant to be celebrated.
And while we always want to squeeze in time to celebrate success with our loved ones, SBO understands that we are such a busy society.
We study, we work, we grind and repeat.
Our schedule limits us in preparing something that will sweep our loved ones off their feet.
And that's where SBO enters.
We're here to help you organize a unique and unforgettable sweet surprise for your loved ones.
We're not stiff. We listen.
We treat every event as our own. We share the excitement of our clients, we edit photos like how we edit our own shots, how we'd like it to look on Instagram. And we decorate the place like how we's want our own birthday parties to turn out.
- How did you come up with the name of your company ?
Bowl Over means to surprise someone by being very beautiful; to surprise greatly. We wanted our company name to be conventional. This allows us to position our offerings as something unique and far from ordinary balloon decoration and gift delivery service.
- When was your company founded and who are the persons behind it ?
We're a small online-based business composed of an online seller, a graphic artist and a program developer.
We've combined our passion, skills and our "thing" for delighting someone's day to come up with this simple side job.
We just started our operation last August 2018 and have already been blessed with 700++ facebook page likes, numerous successful events and number of gift deliveries mostly thru the recommendation of friends and family.
Just recently, When In Manila, together with I dart DASH invited us to join their Halloween Party. They believed in our offerings and helped us showcase one of our service during the event.
- How did you get your idea of concept for this business?
It all started with a box of chocolates and a broken heart....
Sometime 2017, one of us had a huge meltdown which was the result of a terrible relationship experience and really bad break-up.
Once came to her comfort, invited her to get a cup of coffee and gave her a box full of chocolates with a letter inside saying:
"Sometimes, having a coffee with your best friend is all the therapy you need.
I will always be here for you".
Few months later, we've looked back and realized how this simple gesture of kindness affected her in a very positive manner.
We figured, since kindness is good for everyone, why not let everybody experience it thru a product or service? And who doesn't want gifts, anyway? :)
We then offered our products and services at an affordable range because we believe that surprises and gifts doesn't need to be grand. In fact, sometimes, a simple letter, a simple thought, a simple act already changes someone's life entirely.
- What do you offer?
Balloon Setup, Surprise Concept & Gift Delivery
Balloon Setup
Staying in for the night ? Greet your other half with a balloon-filled room.
Top tip: Hold the bouquet, dim the lights and get the tissue ready
Surprise Concept
Got bizzare ideas to swoon your loved one but you've got limited time to prepare? No worries! We've got you covered.
Gift Delivery
Whether you've got a question to pop of you just want to light up someone's day. SBO has a wide variety of gift ideas. Ready for Delivery!
- What makes you different?
→ We offer a complimentary 20-minute photoshoot. "Tailor-made" for Instagram
→ We offer shopping and hotel booking assistance. For those who are on-the-go and has no time to look for hotel and/Airbnb deals.
→ We listem. We definitely go all the way to make an event as personal as possible.
- How to place an order?
Visit our Facebook Page at Sweet Bowl Over and fill up our online order form. Once submitted, we will send the payment details right away.
- Do you have a physical store?
No, we don't have a physical store but our supplies are all stored in Makati :)
Personally, I rate them 11/10 yes! I'm really fond of setting up birthday surprises with matching colorful decorations for my family and friends! Also, I've been looking for a shop/store that caters to this type of industry. That's why when I found out about them, I decided to give them a try. As a busy woman, I don't have much time to prepare or think of something unique to give to my man. I'm overall thankful and happy for their service!
If you guys are still not convince, just check out their facebook page or you can reach them through their recently launched website Sweet Bowl Over for more details and photos!
SWEET BOWL OVER
Contact #:0998-854-6046
Email: sweetbowlover@gmail.com
Until my next blog !! See yaaa ♥~
Grace~♥
Sunday, November 11, 2018
As promised, I will be sharing our glamping experience at The BLOC Campsite.
The BLOC Campsite is located at Cavinti Laguna and I heard they are still expanding to have more campsites around the Philippines.
Glamping is short for "glamorous"and "camping". Camping without sacrificing the comforts of your home since they will provide you some of the usual necessities that basic camping cannot. I.e. airbeds, pillows, blankets, and even electricity. I'm the staycation type of person and I will prefer comfort over adventure at any day but Roi as a hiker, will always prefer outdoor activities.
So I opted for glamping to make our preferences meet and also we will be celebrating our 2nd Anniversary so I prepared this myself :D *my proud moment* lol
BLOC is situated beside a man-made lake called Sierra Lake. The greens and serene surroundings really call for peace and relaxation. It actually helped me keep my mind off work the moment I stepped a foot!
We went straight to HM Bus Station at Cubao after our shifts and yes, we are commuting ! It was a 3 hour travel from Cubao to Sta. Cruz, Laguna. Took a jeepney going to Cavinti and told the driver to drop us at the terminal of Cavinti Town going to Barangay Bukal. From there, we just asked our co passengers where should we alight and they were very helpful! The BLOC is actually located inside the Passion Cove Estates at the end of the short dirt road beside the Lake. It was a total of 5 hour travel and we finally reached our destination. We were an hour early for the check in which is at 2pm. The staffs, however were already accommodating, they asked us if we want to try boat riding to kill time but we chose to rest instead because we're tired from all the travel HAHAHA!
While waiting, the owner Mr. Philipp Inno arrived together with his family and we had the privilege to meet his wife, Ms. Aj. who oriented and escorted us to our tent 30 minutes earlier than the check in time yaaaas!
I pre-ordered our lunch, dinner and breakfast for the next day. Pre-order is cheaper, food prices doubled when taken on the campsite.
In our case, we didn't bring any packed lunch to eat once we arrived since the lunch will be served the next day upon check out. We ordered because we were legit starving ! Assuming that the food's price will be Php198 because we ordered on site but Ms. Aj only collected Php99/meal! (the pre-order price), she was kind enough to give us a discount. ♥ .
They initially booked me with a medium tent but I saw on another blog post that they also offer deluxe tent so I had it upgraded. Fortunately, ours was overlooking the lake and we had our own hammock !
Inside the tent, there's the airbed, pillows, blankets, table, another two chairs, an outlet for charging your gadgets, a LED light and electric fan. All the comforts I need. I'm in love.
The lake view is just so beautiful ♥
but what happened to that swan though ? HAHAHAHA!
For the prices of tent, it's better to ask them about other options. They have tents that can accommodate large groups too ! perfect for friends and family quality time.
The weather was a combination of sunny and windy. Feeling so relaxed and peace, we both fell asleep. It was by far the most comforting sleep I've had in a while ! This is therapeutic ! We woke up at night to eat dinner and heard the noises of the other campers outside.
After some soul cleansing, I decided to go for a bath.
The rest room and bathroom however are shared with the other campers so to avoid the queues, better choose a time to bath or to do your "thing".
We asked for a BBQ grill that came with a free charcoal. I brought hotdogs and marshmallows with me and this better not be a waste, and it didn't!
who would have thought that simple grilling hotdogs can give me so much "camping" feels! Eating it and overlooking the lake is pure art!
These cats were so adobrs!! but better watch out for your food ! they can go and steal it so always keep your tents close because these residents can be sneaky.
Just after all the grillin, the staff informed us that breakfast was ready!
We got to try almost all their food from the breakfast menu and I totally recommend their Tapsilog ♥
We got to try almost all their food from the breakfast menu and I totally recommend their Tapsilog ♥
And after eating our breakfast, we decided to go for a swim. The lake is really deep and as much as this alone gives me anxiety, I still went and try it myself !
They will provide life jackets for free so you will be fine.
Had lunch before checking out.
We were told by the staff that jeepneys on Sundays were rare. Luckily, Kuya Larry helped us find a tricycle who will take us to Cavinti Terminal. We paid Php150.
Overall, I really enjoy my stay here. I would go back in a heartbeat if given a chance. The service was top notch and the staff were friendly and accommodating. Every corner was instagrammable too!
Here are some of the the features that you can also add for your stay:
- Floating Garden Dock (By Separate Booking)
- One Time (Limited Use) = Php500
- Overnight (Unlimited Use) = Php1,000
We didn't try any lake activities either because we just wanted to chill and immerse in our glamping experience aaaand we're too exhausted since we we're both sleep deprived going there after our night shift !
But if you're interested, feel free to check the prices below:
- Inflatable Boats/Floaters = Php100/hour minimum of 3 hours
- Kayak = Php200/hour minimum of 3 hours
- Stand Up Paddle Board(SUP) = Php300/hour minimum of 3 hours
- Couple's Canoe = Php1,200 for 2 pax only minumum of 3 hours; Php900 for solo
- Island Hopping-Boat Trip = Php100/pax minimum of 10pax with a side trip to the Secret River with FREE Cliff Dive
Inclusive:
- Unli swimming at the lake
- Fishing at the lake ( bring your own fishing rods\gears)
- Utility of Toilet and Bath facility
Freebies:
- A pair of live vests
- A set of firewood for bonfire
- A set of charcoal for BBQ grilling
Here's our sample computation:
2 pax GLAMPING Experience
SAMPLE DETAILED COMPUTATIONS
Price per 1 Overnight
Oct. 27-28
SAMPLE DETAILED COMPUTATIONS
Price per 1 Overnight
Oct. 27-28
2pax DeLuxe Glamping = P5,200
3 Breakfast Meals = P297
2 Extra Rice = P40
TOTAL = P5,537 Only!
3 Breakfast Meals = P297
2 Extra Rice = P40
TOTAL = P5,537 Only!
(transpo fare not included)
Check in: 2pm
Check out: 12pm
Loud sounds and bright light off: 10pm
Complete sounds and light off: 12mn
Kindly bring your own food and drink, they don't have corkage fee~!
It simply means that you can bring all the food and drinks you want
But just in case you want to order food, this is the menu available.
They usually do not stock food supplies at the Camp Site. Food ingredients from food pre-orders (only) of the booked Guests shall be included in the shopping list of their camp site staffs when they travel downtown Pagsanjan/Sta.Cruz to go to the market.
If you want, you can rent your own Super Kalan for Php300, overnight use.
Going to the BLOC Camp Site Options
(courtesy of BLOC)
(courtesy of BLOC)
The easiest way is to find the BLOC Camp Site at Waze or at Google Maps.
They have 2 alternative ways if Waze or Google Maps won't be your option:
1. With Own Vehicle
Travel Time:
3 hours during weekdays,
3-4 hours during weekends.
Option A - Laguna Loop, coming from the South via SLEX
- Drive thru SLEX and take Sto. Tomas / Lucena Exit (the Exit right before Calamba). After a few kilometers, you will see the sign "By Pass to Bucal". Turn Left until you reach the Provincial Highway of Laguna between Calamba and Pansol. Then turn right. Drive straight and you will pass by the towns of Los Banos, Bay, Victoria, Pila, Sta. Cruz and then Pagsanjan. When you reach Pagsanjan, a T-junction in front of the Catholic Church will show you two (2) options: Turning left will lead you to Lumban, while turning right will lead you to Cavinti. The shorter route is to turn right. After an 8 kilometer zigzag drive, you will reach a "Y" junction. Take the road going to the left. Just drive straight ahead and don't take any right turn. You will pass by 2 bridges where you will notice the BLOC Camp Site road signs. Notice a checkpoint barrier with a BLOC Camp Site sign. Turn right and drive into a long and winding path named Agarao Road. When you reached the inverted "Y" junction, drive straight ahead until you pass by the covered court and schools in Brgy. Bukal. Right after that, you'll see now the Passion Cove Estates where the BLOC Camp Site is.
Option B - Laguna Loop, Coming from the East via Cainta or Antipolo
- Drive towards the town of Famy either thru Teresa or thru Angono. Drive straight ahead until you reach the town of Pagsanjan, Laguna. Then follow the guide already advised above at Option A.
2. Commute
- Go to the HM Trans Bus Station at Cubao, Quezon City. It's located at EDSA near the intersection of Aurora Blvd. It is right beside the 5 Star Bus Station. Ride a Bus going to Sta. Cruz, Laguna. When you reach the HM Trans Bus Station somewhere near the boundary of Sta. Cruz and Pagsanjan, Laguna, there are jeepneys that are bound to the town of Cavinti. Tell the Driver to bring you to the Jeepney Terminal at Cavinti Town going to Brgy, Bukal. When you reach Brgy. Bukal, ask for the Passion Cove Estates owned by an American expat. The BLOC Camp Site is located inside the Passion Cove Estates at the end of a short dirt road beside the Lake.
If you have a GPS or Map or perhaps familiar with the place already, the other option to go there is to pass by the Caliraya Lake route. Instead of turning right (Option A), turn left and pass by the town of Lumban until you reach the "Y" intersection. Turn right and drive straight up to Brgy. Caliraya. After Caliraya, there are a couple of barangays to pass by until you reach Brgy. Lumot. In one of the check points with check point road barrier, you will see the BLOC Camp Site road sign. Turn left until you reach Brgy. Bukal and follow the above instructions.
If you're coming from the east (Option 
, instead of driving all the way to Pagsanjan, you will see the above mentioned "Y" intersection before the town of Lumban after the small town of Kalayaan. Now follow too the aforementioned instructions above.
, instead of driving all the way to Pagsanjan, you will see the above mentioned "Y" intersection before the town of Lumban after the small town of Kalayaan. Now follow too the aforementioned instructions above.
If you feel you are lost, the key is to always ask people around.
Reminders:
- Bring everything you think you'll gonna need to feel and enjoy camping, including personal stuff such as towels and toiletries
- Always keep your tents zip and locked to avoid mosquitoes and other insects getting inside the tent. This also prevents the cats and dogs from entering your tent and eating your food.
- Watch out for your belongings, gadgets and cash. They haven't encountered any burglar-related incidents since they started yet still be careful with your personal belongings.
- You are required to wear a life jacket for any lake activities that you will do.
- Minimize the noise as there are campers who prefer to enjoy the peaceful vibe of the camp.
- If you book on weekends, expect the camp to be loud, and festive. Weekdays are more serene and quiet.
- To avoid getting stuck on the queue for toilet and bathroom in the morning before checkout, use it at night time or at the break of dawn.
- Clean as you go. Please keep the camp clean and organize.
- If you're going to commute, allot 4-5 hours travel time.
- They have 3 common bathrooms but they have 5 more located at the back for backup.
- The outlet provided can only accommodate small wattage usage good for charging your gadgets.
- Enjoy the rest of the glamping !
If you want to book or if you have questions, you can send them a message through their Facebook Page.
Thank you for reading !!
Till our next adventure♥
Grace~♥
Monday, November 5, 2018
October was a busy month for me, work-wise. It made me preoccupied and it's one of the reasons why I was not able to blog since September.
Anyways, I will be posting more entries for the following weeks so keep posted.
Okay so here's how my October went.
Roi and I went glamping for the first time at The BLOC Campsite located in Cavinti, Laguna. I will make a separate blog post about the whole experience and expenses since this entry is for my October highlights only.
I hope this photo is enough for now.
Will probably publish it after this one, so wait for it!
So aside from hustling from work, I was able to squeeze some time off and went to this cafe near my work place. Sweet Flour, to well cure my sweet tooth cravings.
And this Matcha flavored ice cream for my Matcha Hunt Series!
So happy matcha is spreading like a virus lol
Call me busy lol but that is how my October went.
I'm pretty positive November will be eventful though!! #excited
See you guys on my next blog ~
Anyways, I will be posting more entries for the following weeks so keep posted.
Okay so here's how my October went.
Roi and I went glamping for the first time at The BLOC Campsite located in Cavinti, Laguna. I will make a separate blog post about the whole experience and expenses since this entry is for my October highlights only.
I hope this photo is enough for now.
Will probably publish it after this one, so wait for it!
So aside from hustling from work, I was able to squeeze some time off and went to this cafe near my work place. Sweet Flour, to well cure my sweet tooth cravings.
October was also my Daddy's birthday ! :)
Nothing beats a family lunch out.
And this Matcha flavored ice cream for my Matcha Hunt Series!
So happy matcha is spreading like a virus lol
Call me busy lol but that is how my October went.
I'm pretty positive November will be eventful though!! #excited
See you guys on my next blog ~
Grace~♥
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